The most famous festival celebrated in Bihar is Chhath Puja. This ancient Hindu festival is important not only in Bihar but also in other regions like Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. Chhath Puja is known for its deep traditions, eco-friendly practices, and the strong devotion of its followers.
Origin and History of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja has a long history that is mentioned in ancient texts and legends. It is believed that the festival started in the holy city of Varanasi and later spread to other parts of India and Nepal. There are stories of Sita performing Chhath Puja after returning to Ayodhya in the epic Ramayana and Kunti performing the ritual in the Mahabharata for the well-being of her son Karna and the Pandavas.
What is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a four-day festival dedicated to worshipping the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, believed to be Surya’s sister. The Sun is worshipped because it provides life to all living beings, and Chhathi Maiya is said to protect children and grant them good health.
When is Chhath Puja, Bihar’s Most Famous Festival Celebrated?
Chhath Puja is celebrated six days after Diwali (Deepavali), in the Hindu month of Kartika, which falls in October or November. There is also a smaller version called Chaiti Chhath, observed in the month of Chaitra (March or April).
Rituals and Traditions of Chhath Puja, Biggest Festival of Bihar
- Day 1: Nahaay Khaay The first day of Chhath Puja is called Nahaay Khaay. Devotees take a holy bath and clean their homes. They prepare a simple vegetarian meal known as Lauka Bhaat, which is shared as an offering to the deity.
- Day 2: Kharna (Rasiaav-Roti or Lohanda) On the second day, devotees fast all day without drinking water. In the evening, they prepare kheer made with jaggery and eat it with roti. This special meal marks the end of their fast and is shared with family and friends.
- Day 3: Sandhya Arghya The third day is the most important. Devotees prepare prasada like Thekua, a special sweet, and fruits. Families go to a riverbank or pond to offer prayers to the setting sun, called Sandhya Arghya. The scene is lively, with songs and a carnival-like atmosphere.
- Day 4: Usha Arghya On the last day, devotees gather at the riverbank early in the morning to offer prayers to the rising sun. After making this offering, they end their fast by eating prasada and water in a ritual called Paran or Parana.
Chhath Puja in Different Regions
Apart from Bihar, Chhath Puja is celebrated in other states like Jharkhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and in Nepal’s Koshi, Lumbini, and Madhesh provinces. It is also popular in urban centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kathmandu, where people gather at rivers, lakes, and ponds to perform the rituals.
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